Hello,
I have a problem with an employee that managed to tear off part of the product key on their computer. The problem is also my fault.
I wiped the computer (working in healthcare) for the purpose of rebuilding it, and I didn't notice the product key was torn before I wiped the drive.
Is there anything I can do to recover this key? Will making a call to MS with the number below the barcodes help at all or am I out of luck?
Any help would be appreciated.
As this is clearly an OEM product, Microsoft would probably refer you to the Original Equipment Manufacturer. Who. under the licence terms is responsible for all after sales service.
If you still have your records it may be worthwhile checking with the original supplier, Companies like Dell may be able to provide the key from their records
Welcome to the forums Steeps5!
You could use this program : https://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder/
Its free and will get your product key for you.. (Very quickly too!)
Last edited by indianacarnie; 04 Dec 2014 at 12:04. Reason: Clairification
Scott, if this is an OEM device that's as shipped, (using the pre-installed SLC key), I think this type of program will only display this built in Key. The key on the sticker is a unique key that is different from the Built in key, (the key on the sticker must be used for any install other than an OEM restore to Factory state).
Steeps5 - If you have an original restore set of disks from the manufacturer, or a valid restore option on the system, then this would be an option, as it would restore the system and automatically activate against the built in Key.
As you have already wiped the disk I think the disk set from the manufacturer would be the only option short of the help of the manufacturer to retrieve the torn key
There is one possibility...
If you are patient and persistent.
install using the default Key, or the OEM_SLP Key
Attempt Telephone Activation, and speak to an operator - they will tell you that your current Key is blocked (they should then ask for confirmation of your Product Key). Explain to them your problem, that you need to change the Key to the one on your sticker, but that the sticker is unreadable (could they please supply a replacement Key?). Hopefully they will ask for documentary proof of the sticker, in the form of an email with a picture of the affected sticker - and you can proceed from there.
Sometimes it takes two or three calls before you get an operator who actually knows and uses this procedure - but I know that it can and does happen.
Thank you for that answer, I may try that method. I've just always been discouraged from calling them because I've yet to actually get a response other than "Buy a new key."
Thank you to everyone else for your suggestions, but unfortunately I did wipe the disk before checking that key. You definitely learn from making mistakes. (Just wish that Microsoft would match the price of Windows 7 to 8...)
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